Jan 8, 1976: Zhou Enlai dies in Beijing

Zhou Enlai, vice chairman of the CPC Central Committee, premier of the State Councile and chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, died at the age of 78 in Beijing on Jan 8, 1976.

Zhou Enlai was born in Huaian, Jiangsu Province in 1898. He studied in Japan in his early years. In 1919, he participated in the May Fourth Movement in Tianjin and went to France and Germany to pursue further study under work-study programs in 1920.

Zhou Joined the CPC in 1921. After returning to China, he participated in and led many revolutions. After the founding of the New China, he devoted his life to the country's prosperity and international exchanges.

Vice-Premier Deng Xiaoping gave the eulogy at Zhou's state funeral on 15 January 1976. Millions of people gathered along Chang'an Avenue in Beijing to say a final farewell to Zhou Enlai as his coffin was transferred to Babaoshan for cremation.